While we focus mostly on local food here on the blog, I thought I'd divert attention away from the edible and over to one of my favorite sites, Etsy.com. During this past Christmas shopping season, I tried to buy local as much as possible. What that meant to me was choosing local shops over Target and the mall. I think my gifts were a hit.
In addition to walking the Elmwood strip, I found myself logging onto Etsy and browsing the handmade goods available from crafty Western New Yorkers (for those of you unfamiliar with Etsy, I suggest checking out their information page and browsing the site. In short, it's an easy-to-use eBay for handmade and vintage goods).
On Etsy, you're more often than not buying goods directly from their creators: handknit scarves, beautiful paintings, and artisan jewelry are among the many offerings. And because the Etsy peeps are awesome, you can even hone in on an area of the world from which you wish to purchase your homemade gifts through the site's "Shop Local" page.
After typing in "Buffalo NY," check out these great finds (all made in and around Buffalo):
This "Romantic Cuff" from Paperhill is described as "something that Lizzie from Pride & Prejudice might wear" and "lovely in place of a traditional corsage or be a perfect touch for rehearsal dinner or for the bridesmaids." $30.
Not only are these earrings beautiful, they're incredibly affordable. The shop beadediris describes them as "made with 16mm vintage green moonglow lucite rounds" and recently included them in a special Buy-4-get-Free-Shipping deal. $5.50.
This photograph from Linden Tea, "Twisted," can be ordered as an 8x10 print on glossy or matted paper. $18.
If you haven't bought a 2009 calendar, consider this locally-designed piece from DesignCircus $8.50. and be reminded of your effort to buy local every day. On sale for $8.50.
What are you waiting for? Get over to Etsy!
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